Families who loved Getting Over Garrett Delaney by Abby McDonald often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
A parent would reach for this book when their teenager is experiencing the hollow ache of a first heartbreak or the exhaustion of an unrequited crush. It is specifically designed for the teen who has lost their sense of self while trying to fit into someone else's world. The story follows seventeen-year-old Sadie as she embarks on a self-imposed twelve-step program to stop pining for her best friend, Garrett, who treats her like an afterthought. Through a summer job and new friendships, Sadie learns that her value is not defined by a boy's attention. The book explores themes of independence, the toxicity of one-sided friendships, and the joy of rediscovering forgotten passions. While it deals with romantic longing, it is a healthy, secular, and empowering look at reclaiming one's identity. It is highly appropriate for high schoolers navigating the social complexities of dating and self-worth.